Senate Bill No. 85, introduced by Senator Wheat, aims to enhance the regulation of watercraft operation on state waterways by allowing parishes to designate no-wake zones. The bill amends several sections of the Louisiana Revised Statutes, specifically R.S. 34:851.4, 851.14.1, and 851.27, to incorporate the term "no-wake zone" uniformly throughout the law. It establishes that no person shall operate a vessel in excess of an established no-wake zone and allows local governing authorities to set and post both speed limits and no-wake zones on waterways within their jurisdiction, excluding certain major waterways. Importantly, the bill clarifies that local no-wake zones will not preempt state laws regarding such zones.

Additionally, the bill provides for emergency measures that can be taken by the secretary to close waterways or restrict their use, including the establishment of no-wake zones during emergencies. It also empowers the Bayou Lafourche Fresh Water District to implement no-wake zones in response to conditions that threaten the integrity of waterway banks. The proposed changes are set to take effect on August 1, 2025, and aim to improve safety and environmental protection on Louisiana's waterways.

Statutes affected:
SB85 Original: 34:4(A)(17), 34:1(A), 34:27(B)(1), 38:24(F)(2)